Westside Digest

Santa Monica : Airport Funds to Be Sought

The city of Santa Monica will ask the Federal Aviation Administration for more than $1 million to pay for improvements at Santa Monica Municipal Airport.

Airport Director Jeffrey P. Mathieu termed the proposed renovation routine and said it is designed to prevent accidents and runway deterioration.

The City Council voted unanimously this week to direct city staff to formally apply for the funds. The FAA has already tentatively approved an informal city request for the $1 million. But the city will also ask the FAA to fund 90% of a runway condition study and 90% of the cost to install some sound barriers, which together will cost an additional $54,000.

The city plans to pay $10,000 for the installation of wash racks--used to wash airplanes--and the repair of cracks in the airport's taxiways.

The runway, built in 1942, is in need of repair because of depressions and cracks that cause a rough ride during takeoffs and landings, the city's grant application says.